VS4 nanoparticles rooted by a-C coated MWCNTs as an advanced anode material in lithium ion batteries

VS4 as an anode material is showing its glamour, due to its unique chain-like structure, the high content of sulfur, and distinctive electrochemical behaviours. Here, VS4 nanoparticles rooted by amorphous carbon coated multi-walled carbon nanotubes, are successfully synthesized via a simple solvothermal reaction. This unique structure enables modified carbon nanotubes to enhance the charge transportation not only inside the composite but also outside the composite, which is difficult to be achieved by other structures. These chargetransfer enhancements allow the composite to exhibit much better electrochemical performances than many transition metal sulfides, in terms of both cycling stability and rate capability. It delivers a reversible capacity of 922 mAh g(-1) after 100 cycles at 0.5 A g(-1). Even after cycled at 2 or 5 A g(-1) for 1000 times, it still has a capacity of 576 or 401 mAh g(-1). Besides in lithium ion batteries, this composite could be also used as an anode material in sodium ion batteries.